Rodney’s Notes
Court of Quarter Sessions of Delaware, Sussex County.
November 16, 1802.
Owen Oday, sworn. Ryley came to my house, wanted a cow to pay him on account; because I would not let him have it, he abused. He seized, pushed me in the fire, etc., about this time three years.
Comfort Oday, sworn. Ryley came and abused Daddy, pushed him in the fire. Joseph Wyatt came with. Were there one and a half hours. Wanted to get a cow and barrow for an account of £3 odd. Oday never resisted him, told Ryley he should pay for it.
Mr. Cooper for defendant. We shall be able to justify the assault and battery, [one] having been first committed on us.
Joseph Wyatt. Ryley said he should take Oday’s cow etc. Asked me to go. I went. He told Oday he should take the cow and barrow. Oday at first agreed, but at last refused. Got to quarrelling, began to scuffle. Dan spit on him and then struck him twice. Ryley pushed him in the fire.
Cross-examined. They were not angry at first.
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Mr. Broom for the State. Ryley was in fault for going to the house and taking the brandy.
Mr. Cooper for defendant.
Mr. Wilson for defendant.
Mr. Broom in conclusion.
Verdict, not guilty.